Dhampus Sarangkot Trek - 07 Days

Dhampus, a picturesque small village in the Annapurna region, lies about 220 kilo meters away from Kathmandu. This “Gurung” dominated village is also one of the several entry points to the Annapurna Base Camp and the gateway to many trekking trails in the Annapurna region. One can witness a whooping close up view of the luscious Annapurna Range and many other towering mountains from Dhampus. What’s even more appealing is the mesmerizing sunset view.

Sarangkot is another absolutely scenic village in Kaski district, boisterously perched on a mountainside ridge at an altitude of 1600 metres. This emerging tourist destination offers stunning views of Dhaulagiri range in the far west as well as an incredibly close up view of the Annapurna massif. The village overlooks the fascinating lake city, Pokhara to the south.

The Dhampus Sarangkot Trek, is a short enticing venture that literally circumferences the lake city cum a famed tourist hotspot of Nepal, Pokhara. The trek basically comprises of short hikes along the beautiful village trails and is absolutely perfect for those who want to make the best use of their short holiday. The trip commences with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Once we land at the airport in Pokhara, we head on for another short drive to Phedi, from where we kick of our trek, walking uphill towards the village of Dhampus. Witnessing the splendid mountainous vistas of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs and capturing a mesmerizing sunset view from Dhampus, we march alongside the lush vegetation to Sarangkot. About 4-5 hours of soft trek, relishing the jaw-dropping views of the Himalayas above and crystal clear lakes below, we eventually arrive at Sarangkot, which also offers some great adventures like paragliding and zip flying. The trip wraps up with an enticing sightseeing of Pokhara, beholding some its beautiful lakes, viz. Phewa, Rupa, Begnas and other famed landmarks.

OUTLINE ITINERARY

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400 m)

Day 02: Kathmandu city sightseeing and trek preparation

Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820 m/25 min)/Drive from Pokhara to Phedi (1130m/1hr)/ Trek from Phedi to Dhampus (1650 m/3 hrs)

Day 04: Trek from Dhampus to Sarangkot (1592 m/4-5 hrs)

Day 05: Trek from Sarangkot to Pokhara (820 m/2.5 hrs) or alternatively, paraglide from Sarangkot to Pokhara, followed by a half day sightseeing

Day 06: Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1400 m/25 min)

Day 07: Final departure

Important Snippets

The itinerary prescribed above is the standard template of the trip plan offered by Marron Treks which can be readily customized to match the guests’ preferences. However, the guests are expected to understand that the execution of the trip plan might be circumvented by an array of uncontrollable factors like bad weather, political turmoil, strikes, blockades and other unforeseen contingencies. Besides, the domestic flights in Nepal could be subjected to delays or cancellations owing to adverse weather conditions or technical glitches. It is worth mentioning that the flights cannot be operated in the condition where the visibility is less than 1600 meters. Under such abnormal circumstances, the trip plans might undergo slight or sharp alterations, taking into consideration, the best interest of the clients. Wherever the changes are made, Marron Treks cannot be held responsible for the consequences. Nevertheless, we shall endeavor our level best to make sure that the trip is carried out with respect to the original trip specifics.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400 m)

Upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be received by a representative from Marron Treks and then transferred to your designated hotel. At the hotel, you are greeted with welcome drinks. We will then have a quick pre-trip meeting, where you are briefed on the trekking itineraries and some formalities that ought to be pursued prior to the trip. Depending on the time remaining, you can either rest or stroll around the vicinity of your hotel to get the feel of this flamboyant and energetic capital of Nepal. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.

Day 02: Kathmandu city sightseeing and trek preparation

Let’s savor the succulent breakfast and get ready for a guided tour to the historic, religious and cultural sites of Kathmandu. Hop in to our transport vehicle with an experienced city guide and drive through the hullabaloo of Kathmandu. Our guide will be taking you to visit the renowned sites listed in the UNESCO world’s heritage list- the Pasupatinath Temple (the most revered Hindu shrine), Kathmandu (Basantapur) Durbar Square and Boudhanath (the Maha Stupa). After this interesting and informative tour, we drive back to the hotel. You can now head for shopping the trekking goodies. Most of the items are available on rent. You can take the help of our guide in identifying the best rental outlet. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.

Piercing the lovely blue sky above the Annapurna and Langtang region, this short scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara is simply amazing. It offers jaw dropping vistas of the fascinating snow clad mountains of the Annapurna regions. In about 25 minutes, we land at the Pokhara airport, the cleanest airport of Nepal. At Pokhara, our transport vehicle will be waiting for us. We will then drive past some lovely farmlands and villages inhabited by the mid-hill tribes (Gurungs) to reach Phedi. It is from here that our trek actually begins.

From Phedi, we begin to climb though the beautiful forests and countryside for nearly three hours, until we arrive at the hill top village named Dhampus. Anyone could be stunned with the splendor of the milieu. Dhampus offers magnificent mountainous vistas of Fishtail, Hiunchuli, Lamjung Himal, Dhaulagiri etc. This village is a perfect epitome of natural grandeur and tranquility, which offers a welcome diversion from the mundane and hullabaloo of a hectic city life. One of the many good reasons of visiting Dhampus is to observe the mind-boggling sunset. This evening we will be witnessing this much talked about “golden dusk sight”. Dhampus is not just a mountain vantage point, but also a culturally rich village. Staying here for a day gives us the opportunity to understand the life patters of the ethnic Gurungs, the major inhabitants here. Overnight at teahouse in Dhampus; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 04: Trek from Dhampus to Sarangkot (1592 m/4-5 hrs)

We had a wonderful evening and a contented sleep. The scenic retreat is not yet over. Today we will be advancing to Sarangkot, another absolutely beautiful hilly village of rural Nepal. We wake up a bit early to relish the fascinating sunrise view from the mountains. After that, we grab our breakfast and then march along the pleasant trail embellished with flashy rhododendrons, indulging in the superb Himalayan panorama of Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, and the luscious Annapurna ranges, until we arrive at this sensational village of Sarangkot, overlooking the fascinating lake city, Pokhara. As we follow the set of concrete steps, uphill, we come at ruins of the ancient fort, which literally happens to be the vantage point of enjoying the uncommon beauty of this village. Beholding the Annapurna from here, tosses us to cloud#9; it is indeed so mesmerizing! At the dusk, as the sun rays caress the peaks, one can witness the colorful ambience that subtly dazzles the Himalayas. After this scenic retreat, we descend to the village and check in to one of the teahouses there, for overnight stay. Overnight at teahouse in Sarangkot; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 05: Trek from Sarangkot to Pokhara (820 m/2.5 hrs) or alternatively, paraglide from Sarangkot to Pokhara, followed by a half day sightseeing

We have two exciting options to get to Pokhara. The first one is to continue trekking and the second one is to paraglide all the way to Pokhara. We get up a bit early to behold the sunrise, illuminating the entire Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, including the Fishtail as well as other adjoining mountains. After breakfast, we trek down to Pokhara through the forests and cultivated fields. Once at Pokhara, we can check in to our hotel and have lunch. We are at the tourist hotspot of Nepal, so touring around this funky city has to be on the cards. We cruise around the city visiting the major tourist attractions here, viz. Phewa Lake, Rupa Lake, Begnas Lake, Barahi Temple and Davis Falls. Overnight at hotel in Pokhara; breakfast included.

Day 06: Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1400m/25 min)

We board the short scenic flight to Kathmandu, beholding the fascinating chain of mountains from the tiny closed glass windows of our aircraft. After about 25 minutes, we touch down the domestic wing of the Kathmandu airport. A representative from Marron Treks will receive and transfer you to your hotel. You have the whole lot of day remaining, so after freshening up yourselves, you can indulge in some souvenir shopping at Thamel, but make sure that you cling to hardcore bargaining, as if it is your religion! If you think, the fun is now over, you’ve just made a premature judgment, because Marron Treks has some great stuff in store for you this evening. Come and be a part of a lavish farewell dinner program; a full-fledged Nepali cuisines and an enticing cultural show…the night is all yours!!! Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast and dinner included.

Day 07: Final departure

A representative from Marron Treks will escort you to the airport. It is advisable to get there, three hours prior to the flight schedule. Goodbyes are not forever, goodbyes are not the end; they simply mean we’ll miss you, till we meet again! Hope you had a great time with us and we look forward to being you adventure companion to Nepal again.

Important Snippets

The itinerary prescribed above is the standard template of the trip plan offered by Marron Treks which can be readily customized to match the guests’ preferences. However, the guests are expected to understand that the execution of the trip plan might be circumvented by an array of uncontrollable factors like bad weather, political turmoil, strikes, blockades and other unforeseen contingencies. Besides, the domestic flights in Nepal could be subjected to delays or cancellations owing to adverse weather conditions or technical glitches. It is worth mentioning that the flights cannot be operated in the condition where the visibility is less than 1600 meters. Under such abnormal circumstances, the trip plans might undergo slight or sharp alterations, taking into consideration, the best interest of the clients. Wherever the changes are made, Marron Treks cannot be held responsible for the consequences. Nevertheless, we shall endeavor our level best to make sure that the trip is carried out with respect to the original trip specifics.

Along the trekking route, there are many Tea House/ Lodges which provide good services. We will ensure that you get the best of the services available so that you enjoy every bit of your trek.

Meals

We arrange the best quality food during the trek as we are concerned about the health of the trekkers as well as the staff members. Generally, we opt for locally available food in the Annapurna Regionso that you could get a real sense of the culture, living patterns, simultaneously promoting the locally available resources of organic food and beverages. Other than that, a wide range of Continental, Chinese, Italian and Indian cuisines like Pizza, Spaghetti, French Fries, Soups, Breads etc are also available for your retreat.

Porter and Staff Care

We ensure that all the porters and other staffs going to high altitude conditions are provided with adequate clothing and equipments. They are the backbones of a trek.

Best Months

February to May & September to December are considered to be the best for this trek.

Difficulties

Although this is a trek of a easy grade, anyone who is physically fit, can opt of it.

Our Guides

Guides play a very active role during the trek. Marron Treks has experienced and helpful treking guides who make your trip enjoyable as well as productive. Our guides are literate, multilingual speakers, environment conscious and well acquainted to culture, language, location and every single detail pertaining to the Annapurna Region . This would help our trekkers make the most of their trip.

Travel Insurance

It is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. The main thing is to make sure that your insurance covers you for both medical and evacuation costs. In some places it is not necessary but it would be better if you have the travel insurance with you all the time. That would make your trip safe and hassle free.

Entrance and monumental fees during the sightseeing in Kathmandu & Pokhara as prescribed in the itinerary.

Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara on “BB” basis as per itinerary.

All ground transportation costs in accordance to the itinerary.

All trekking accommodation costs on full board (B, L, D) basis as per the itinerary. Four seasonal sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion) duffel bag, t-shirt and Cap (provided as complimentary gears).

Nepal entry visa fee – Visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 15 days costs US $ 25 or equivalent foreign currency, Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 30 days and 90 days costs US $40 and $ 100 respectively. You will need a valid passport and 2 copies of your recent PP sized photos).

Tips to the guide, porter, driver, hotel and tea-house staff (Tipping is expected).

Cost incurred due to the addition of extra days or change in the real course of the itinerary because of bad weather conditions, political turmoil or any other unforeseen contingencies.

Garbage deposit fees (refundable).

Any other expenses not mentioned in the 'Cost Includes' section above.

TREKKING GEARS & EQUIPMENTS

Needless to say that kitting and stuffing yourself out for a trek is almost a herculean task which keeps you mulling and often gets you overwhelmed. But at the mercy of the renting outlets sprouting in every visible corner in Kathmandu, preparing for trekking in Nepal these days is almost tantamount to equipping yourself for a weekend backpacking trip. Most of the heavy and expensive items are easily available on rent, so you don’t actually have to travel Nepal with a cartload of gears. We have endeavored to formulate a categorical checklist that gives you a tentative idea regarding the gears and accessories mandatory for you during the trek. The list could vary depending upon the kind of trek you pursue, the terrain, weather conditions and time of the year. For instance, you don’t need the camp-trek equipments when you are on a tea-house trek. This listing below simply serves as a guideline and you can always have your own checklist. It is always preferable to pack light and the key to this is to carry the gears and accessories that have uses.

CLOTHING (Core & Lower body)

Water-proof (breathable fabric) jacket, Poncho or Umbrella

Hard shell pants (breathable fabric- 1 set), preferably that zips from top and bottom which can be worn over boots without getting undressed, in case of abrupt weather changes

Duffle bag (will be provided by Marron Treks as a complimentary gear and you needn't return it )

Pack cover (to protect your gears from getting wet)

Day sack/Nylon stuff sack

Sleeping Bag/ Silk liner (will be provided by Marron Treks but

should be returned after the trip)

Water bottle

Good head torch along with spare batteries and bulbs

Maps, compass and a guide book

Trekking poles

Miscellaneous Bits

The items below could seem trivial, but if you don’t have them, you might just find

yourself sticky and stinky, which isn’t actually good for you!

Toiletries

Quick-drying camp towel

Detergent powder/bar

Toilet paper

Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 20+) & Lip balm

Pocket knife

Sewing/Repair Kit (for tent & mattress)

Emergency kit including a whistle, waterproof match/lighter

Padlocks for bags and lodge rooms

Stuff sacks

Earplugs

Candlesticks

Medicaments

It is important that you can include the medicines prescribed by your doctor. Below is just the generic list of medications. We advice you to always consult your travel doctor as you might be resistant or allergic to some medicines

Anesthetics (Ibuprofen/Aspirin)

Broad spectrum antibiotics tablets

Metronidazole and Antacids (for diarrohea /indigestion)

Broad spectrum ointments (Neosporin/ Clotrimazole/Gentamicin)

Antiseptic liquids (Dettol/Savlon)

Assorted band-aids

Small gauge pad

Roll of adhesive tape

Iodine tablets

Optional Carry

Nothing hard and fast about carrying the items in this list as they are not the basics. Yet, though not all, if you still manage to squeeze in some of these items on your carry, you will not regret as they might just come handy during the trek

Camera, memory card and battery charger

GPS unit Altimeters

Binoculars

Pee bottle for men (leak proof/wide mouth) & Pee funnel for women

Books and magazines

Departure Date

Marron Treks has calibrated fixed departure dates for all the trek packages. We operate group as well as individual/private treks. Please pick the most palpable date for you and book your trip now. If the dates below don’t fit your schedule, kindly contact us directly and let us know about your preference.

Trip Facts

Starting Price: XXXX (On request)

Group Size: 01 – 12 Pax

Trip Grade: Easy

Accommodation: Hotel/Tea house

Transportation: Flight/Private car

Highest Elevation: Dhampus (1650m)

Lowest Elevation: Pokhara(820m)

Average Walking Hours per Day: 3 Hours

Trek Commences From: Phedi (1130m)

Trek Terminates At: Pokhara (820m)

Best Months: Feb-May & Sep-Dec

Trip Highlights

Cruise around Kathmandu city, exploring the most renowned historic and cultural landmarks, with an experienced city guide.

A perfect pick for the short holiday makers, featuring easy walks and superabundant scenic retreats

A short scenic flight to Pokhara over the luscious Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges

Get indulged in the natural splendor and tranquility of Dhampus…..be thrilled with the scintillating sunset view

Behold the massive Annapurna at a whooping close distance as you ascend to the vantage point of Sarangkot

Relish the mesmerizing beauty of the fascinating lakes (Rupa, Fewa and Begnas) as you cruise around the flamboyant city of Pokhara

A full-fledged Nepali style farewell dinner program featuring a range of traditional Nepali cuisines cum an entertaining live cultural show